Indications and Implications of Autism

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) encompasses a broad range of conditions characterized by persistent challenges with social skills and interaction, repetitive behaviours, restricted interests, and speech and nonverbal communication. There are many types of autism. Autism is not limited to children, although early diagnosis will improve support so that they can improve interactions and independent living in the long term and explore the best learning methods for them. Many autistic children will make significant progress in their development with time.

Autism does not denote a limitation. As a society, we should remember that everyone has unique strengths and challenges, which is the case with autism. While some people with autism may need more support with schooling, safety or daily activities, others thrive in school with little support and are independent as adults. Also, autism is not a function of gender, age or ethnicity. There is no single known cause of autism. It may be due to genetics, family history, medications such as valproic acid, sedatives or anti-nausea meds taken during pregnancy or parents being older at the time of pregnancy.

Early signs are noticeable as early as the first birthday. Many autistic signs appear by age 2 or 3; however, there are several instances of diagnosis in adulthood when not adequately monitored in childhood. The United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that every child be screened for autism between 18 months and 2 years, especially when they show interest in a few activities, exhibit repetitive behaviour and show delays in speech, gross and fine motor skills and social-emotional development.

When a parent, caregiver or teacher notices signs of autism, a pediatrician, especially one specialized in development, a pediatric psychologist, a child neurologist, or a psychiatrist can diagnose autism. To diagnose, they will ask what you have observed about your child, ask specific questions about your child’s development, and conduct behavioural testing and observations. An autism diagnosis can be unexpected and emotional. However, it is not something to dread. It means you must make changes and institute a plan to support your child. Working with your developmental expert and support systems, you will be well on your way to helping your child maximize their potential. 

Interventions such as applied behavioural analysis with structured plans for improving adaptive skills, social skills training, speech and language therapy, and occupational daily activity therapy will strengthen skills development. Through parent or caregiver management training and support groups, parents learn effective ways of encouraging appropriate behaviour in their child and access support. In special education services, children learn to address language, social skills, communication deficits, restricted interests, and repetitive behaviours. 

Sometimes, conditions such as attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), anxiety or sleep disorders may be present alongside autism. Management is with the interventions above and psychotherapy. A pediatrician, primary physician or psychologist will prescribe medication where appropriate for mental health conditions.

Although autism is a lifelong condition, it is not a limitation to one’s ability to be successful. An autistic person’s needs may change over time, requiring various levels of support as they grow. However, early intervention and therapies significantly impact skills development and outcomes later in life.

Our partner network and in-house pediatrician will support you with excellent care for autism screening, diagnosis and management. Visit Mother and Child Hospital at 2 Omole Layout, Ogunnusi Road, Ojodu. Please call +234 703 620 2190 to confirm an appointment.